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Athlete/Parent/Guardian Sudden Cardiac Arrest Symptoms and Warning Signs

Information Sheet and Acknowledgement of Receipt and Review Form

7/2012

What is sudden cardiac arrest?

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is when the heart stops beating, suddenly and unexpectedly. When this happens blood

stops flowing to the brain and other vital organs. SCA is NOT a heart attack. A heart attack may cause SCA, but they are

not the same. A heart attack is caused by a blockage that stops the flow of blood to the heart. SCA is a malfunction in the

heart’s electrical system, causing the heart to suddenly stop beating.

How common is sudden cardiac arrest in the United States?

There are about 300,000 cardiac arrests outside hospitals each year. About 2,000 patients under 25 die of SCA each

year.

Are there warning signs?

Although SCA happens unexpectedly, some people may have signs or symptoms, such as:

•

dizziness

racing or fluttering

nausea

•

heartbeat (palpitations)

lightheadedness

vomiting

•

syncope (fainting)

shortness of breath

chest pains

•

fatigue (extreme tiredness)

difficulty breathing

•

weakness

These symptoms can be unclear and confusing in athletes. Often, people confuse these warning signs with physical

exhaustion. SCA can be prevented if the underlying causes can be diagnosed and treated.

What are the risks of practicing or playing after experiencing these symptoms?

There are risks associated with continuing to practice or play after experiencing these symptoms. When the heart stops,

so does the blood that flows to the brain and other vital organs. Death or permanent brain damage can occur in just a few

minutes. Most people who have SCA die from it.

Act 59 – the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Prevention Act (the Act)

The Act is intended to keep student-athletes safe while practicing or playing. The requirements of the Act are:

Information about SCA symptoms and warning signs.

•

Every student-athlete and their parent or guardian must read and sign this form. It must be returned to the school

before participation in any athletic activity. A new form must be signed and returned each school year.

•

Schools may also hold informational meetings. The meetings can occur before each athletic season. Meetings

may include student-athletes, parents, coaches and school officials. Schools may also want to include doctors,

nurses and athletic trainers.

Removal from play/return to play

•

Any student-athlete who has signs or symptoms of SCA must be removed from play. The symptoms can happen

before, during or after activity. Play includes all athletic activity.

•

Before returning to play, the athlete must be evaluated. Clearance to return to play must be in writing. The evaluation must be

performed by a licensed physician, certified registered nurse practitioner or cardiologist (heart doctor). The licensed

physician or certified registered nurse practitioner may consult any other licensed or certified medical professionals.

I have reviewed and understand the symptoms and warning signs of SCA.

____________________________

__________________________

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Signature of Student-Athlete

Print Student-Athlete’s Name

Date

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Athlete/parent/guardian Sudden Cardiac Arrest Symptoms And Warning Signs Information Sheet And Acknowledgement Of Receipt And Review Form - Pennsylvania Department Of Health

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